The Impact of Amitriptyline on Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Research indicates that amitriptyline can significantly improve symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A large randomized controlled trial demonstrated that low doses of the medication led to better outcomes compared to a placebo. Participants noted improvements in IBS symptoms, suggesting that amitriptyline functions primarily as a neuromodulator rather than an antidepressant. The findings advocate for considering amitriptyline as a second-line treatment option for patients who do not respond to first-line therapies.